St Vincent De Paul Roman Catholic Church - Holiday Florida

Image: Saint John Damaskinos | unknown

---

Saint of the Day for December 4

(c. 676 -749)

Click here to listen

---

Saint John Damascene’s Story

John spent most of his life in the Monastery of Saint Sabas near Jerusalem, and all of his life under Muslim rule, indeed protected by it.

He was born in Damascus, received a classical and theological education, and followed his father in a government position under the Arabs. After a few years, he resigned and went to the Monastery of Saint Sabas.

He is famous in three areas:

First, he is known for his writings against the iconoclasts, who opposed the veneration of images. Paradoxically, it was the Eastern Christian emperor Leo who forbade the practice, and it was because John lived in Muslim territory that his enemies could not silence him.

Second, he is famous for his treatise, Exposition of the Orthodox Faith, a summary of the Greek Fathers, of which he became the last. It is said that this book is for Eastern schools what the Summa of Aquinas became for the West.

Third, he is known as a poet, one of the two greatest of the Eastern Church, the other being Romanus the Melodist. His devotion to the Blessed Mother and his sermons on her feasts are well known.

Saint John Damascene's liturgical feast is celebrated on April 30.

---

Reflection

John defended the Church’s understanding of the veneration of images and explained the faith of the Church in several other controversies. For over 30 years, he combined a life of prayer with these defenses and his other writings. His holiness expressed itself in putting his literary and preaching talents at the service of the Lord.

---

hbspt.cta.load(465210, '3e510774-bf6c-4846-b504-beb9cb79fec5', {"useNewLoader":"true","region":"na1"});

---

Lord, You invite all who are burdened to come to You. Allow your healing hand to heal me. Touch my soul with Your compassion for others. Touch my heart with Your courage and infinite love for all. Touch my mind with Your wisdom, that my mouth may always proclaim Your praise. Teach me to reach out to You in my need, and help me to lead others to You by my example. Most loving Heart of Jesus, bring me health in body and spirit that I may serve You with all my strength. Touch gently this life ...

Pope Francis has announced his prayer intention for February 2023, which is focused on parishes.

Reading 1: Hebrews 13:1-8, Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 27:1, Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 27:8-9, Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 27:3, Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 24:7-10, Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 27:5, Gospel: Mark 6:14-29

Reading 1: Malachi 3:1-4, Gospel: Luke 2:22-40, Reading 2: Hebrews 2:14-18

Bless, O Lord, these new fruits of the vine which Thou hast brought to maturity by the dew of heaven, by plentiful rains, and by tranquil and favorable weather. Thou hast given us this fruit for our use that we may receive it with thanks in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Spirit, world without end. Amen.

Many say, "I know about the Apostles." You may know about the Apostles, but do you know the Apostles?

Reading 1: Hebrews 12:11-15, Reading 1: Hebrews 12:4-7, Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 103:13-14, Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 103:17-18, Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 103:1-2, Gospel: Mark 6:1-6

Almighty and Eternal God, You are the everlasting health of those who believe in You. Hear us for Your sick servant (N...) for whom we implore the aid of Your tender mercy, that being restored to bodily health, he (she) may give thanks to You in Your Church. Through Christ our Lord.

The power of prayer is something that has been acknowledged and embraced by people of all ages, but it can be especially impactful for children. Young people are often searching for meaning, direction, and purpose in their lives, and prayer can provide them with a sense of comfort, guidance, and hope.